ROCKING THE DAISIES CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF MZANSI IN BLOOM
ROCKING THE DAISIES CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF MZANSI IN BLOOM
Cape Town, South Africa – Rocking the Daisies 2025 closed its 20th anniversary in true South African style with a weekend that celebrated two decades of music, fashion, and community under the theme Mzansi in Bloom. From 3 to 6 October, Cloof Wine Estate in Darling transformed into a living garden of sound and colour as tens of thousands of people gathered to celebrate a festival that has become a national cultural touchstone.
This year’s theme, Mzansi in Bloom, symbolised growth, resilience, and national pride. It came alive in every corner of the festival grounds. Festivalgoers showed up in theme with creativity and pride, turning Cloof into a showcase of South African identity. From Springbok jerseys and Pantsula-inspired streetwear to playful alter-ego costumes, people celebrated what it means to be South African in their own way. The crowd energy was pure joy, and it reminded everyone why Daisies has always been more than a music festival.
A WEEKEND OF GLOBAL AND LOCAL GREATNESS
The lineup reflected the heart and soul of Daisies: a blend of global icons and local heroes. Headliner Earl Sweatshirt, the son of South African poet Keorapetse Kgositsile, made history with an emotional performance that connected deeply with his roots. In a powerful moment, Earl paid homage to his uncle Hugh Masekela by closing his set with a live rendition of the song Riot, joined on stage by local band Kujenga. The crowd erupted as the performance turned into one of the defining moments of the weekend.
International acts Summer Walker, Jessie Reyez, Mereba, Sam Tompkins, DJ Starrza, and Djeff brought star power and soul to the festival, each delivering unforgettable sets. South Africa’s own Kabza De Small, Focalistic, A Reece, DJ Zinhle, Que DJ, and Filah Lah Lah showed why the country’s music scene continues to lead the way, blending genres and creating energy that could be felt across the fields.
STAGES AND SPACES ALIVE WITH CULTURE
Every stage and activation had its own personality. The Flying Fish Main Stage carried the festival’s heartbeat from afternoon until midnight, while the Corona Beach Club offered a slice of summer with golden light and ocean energy. The Secret Stage made its debut this year, quickly becoming a fan favourite for its intimate performances, spontaneous sets, and surprise appearances that kept festivalgoers engaged late into the night.
Throughout the weekend, activations across the festival encouraged connection and play. Volleyball matches filled the afternoons with laughter and friendly competition, while Isdin added a fun and inclusive twist with pop-up cricket and volleyball installations. These moments brought people together in unexpected ways and reminded everyone that Daisies is about community as much as it is about music.
FASHION BLOOMS ON THE DARLING MOUNTAINS
The GALXBOY x Rocking the Daisies Fashion Talent Search made a bold return, bringing new designers into the spotlight. Against the backdrop of the Darling mountains, five finalists showcased their collections to a captivated crowd. The atmosphere around the runway was electric, with fans cheering, filming, and celebrating each designer who took to the stage.
Zeshaan Samodien, founder of the Cape Town-based label Haku, was announced as the winner of this year’s search. His collection, inspired by South African street culture and contemporary design, struck a balance between individuality and community. Zeshaan received R20 000 in cash, an opportunity to showcase at SA Menswear Future Talent Week, and an internship at GALXBOY. His win highlighted the creative talent thriving within the Daisies ecosystem, where music, art, and fashion continue to intertwine.
A CELEBRATION OF PARTNERSHIPS
The 20th anniversary brought together some of the most influential brands and collaborators in South Africa. MTV Base, Coke Studio, Corona, DUSSÉ, Red Bull, KFM 94.5, Peaceful Sleep, GALXBOY, and Engen all played a part in shaping the weekend’s experiences. Each partnership contributed something unique, from DUSSÉ’s luxe lounge moments to Red Bull’s high-energy installations and the laid-back glow of Corona’s beach takeover.
Together, these partners helped create a world that felt both distinctly South African and globally relevant.
TWENTY YEARS OF GROWTH
